The ongoing protest at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar has taken an unexpected turn after videos of Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya dancing on stage went viral on social media. While climate activist Sonam Wangchuk continues his indefinite hunger strike nearby, Dahiya’s energetic performances have sparked a nationwide debate over whether dance belongs on a protest stage or distracts from the movement’s message.
Dahiya, however, remains unapologetic. Calling himself a “dancing activist,” he insists that dance is not entertainment but a powerful form of resistance capable of inspiring people and strengthening protest movements.
Vijeta Dahiya Says Dance Is A Form Of Protest
Speaking about the criticism surrounding his performances, Vijeta Dahiya said he wants to become the world’s first “dancing activist.” According to him, dance has always been a powerful medium of expression and social resistance.
He said his performances are aimed at challenging social hierarchies and using art as a tool to protest against what he described as Brahmanvad. Rather than seeing dance as separate from activism, Dahiya argued that it can unite people, spread positive energy and keep protesters motivated during long demonstrations.
According to him, movements require hope as much as anger, and dance helps create that sense of optimism.
Sonam Wangchuk Continues Hunger Strike
Just a few metres away from the music and dancing, climate activist and educationist Sonam Wangchuk has continued his indefinite hunger strike, which has become the central focus of the protest.
Videos circulating online show Wangchuk remaining seated quietly while Dahiya performs on stage. His calm and silent presence has been contrasted with the lively atmosphere created by the music and dance performances.
The contrasting images have divided public opinion, with some questioning whether such performances are appropriate during a hunger strike.
Viral Videos Trigger Social Media Debate
Clips of Vijeta Dahiya dancing before addressing protesters have attracted widespread attention across social media platforms.
Many users questioned whether dancing and music diluted the seriousness of a protest taking place alongside an indefinite fast. Others defended the performances, arguing that cultural expression has historically been an important part of public movements and demonstrations.
The debate intensified after an old music video featuring Dahiya resurfaced online, drawing fresh criticism from some social media users over its portrayal of Hindu deities.
Dahiya Says Wangchuk Supports The Performances
Rejecting claims that his performances were disrespectful, Dahiya said Sonam Wangchuk has never objected to the dancing.
According to him, Wangchuk motivates everyone participating in the protest and has never expressed discomfort with the performances. Dahiya maintained that the atmosphere at the protest remains united despite differing forms of expression.
He also questioned why dancing should be viewed as incompatible with a hunger strike, arguing that every movement requires different ways of keeping participants engaged and emotionally strong.
Art Has Always Been Part Of Public Movements
Defending his approach, Dahiya pointed to history, saying that art, music, theatre and cultural performances have long been associated with protest movements across the world.
He noted that several student organisations in India continue to use songs, street theatre and musical performances during demonstrations to communicate their message and mobilise supporters.
Drawing inspiration from India’s freedom movement, Dahiya also referred to Bhagat Singh’s interest in music and theatre, arguing that activism and artistic expression have often gone hand in hand.
Debate Over Protest Methods Continues
The discussion surrounding Vijeta Dahiya’s performances has shifted attention from the original demands of the protest to the broader question of how public demonstrations should be conducted.
For some, Sonam Wangchuk’s silent hunger strike represents sacrifice and determination. For others, Dahiya’s energetic performances symbolise hope and collective resistance.
As the protest at Jantar Mantar continues, the contrasting images of a fasting activist and a dancing spokesperson have become defining visuals of the movement, highlighting the different ways individuals choose to express dissent while pursuing a common cause.
